The Family Bookshelf
By Bob Walch

"Harriet's Had Enough!"
(Candlewick Press.) by Elissa Haden Guest

The Audience: For children between the ages of  3 and 6 who might not like always being told what to do by their parents. (32 pages)

The Issue: Tempers flare when Harriet's mother asks her to clean up the living room. When she is disciplined for "talking back", Harriet decides to pack her bag and run away.

The Content: When Harriet and her mother argue over the little raccoon's unwillingness to clean up the mess she has made with her toys, an argument ensues. When her mom tells Harriet she is fed-up, Harriet responds, "I'm fed up, too!"

With her red suitcase packed, Harriet heads out the door but runs into her both her grandma and dad.  Although they are sympathetic, up to a point, both adults tell the disgruntled youngster that everyone has to clean up after themselves.

Fortunately, out on the porch Mama Raccoon is sitting in her green rocking chair awaiting her upset child. When her daughter says, "I'm running away!" Mom counters with, "Let's talk!"       

A touching story of misbehavior, fury and forgiveness, Harriet's tale is one most children will find easy to identify with. Wise parents will use this opportunity to discuss temper flare-ups and the importance of cooling down afterwards. 

The Message: This picture book addresses a real life issue. With humor and understanding, the author shows how the "rough spots" in dealing with misbehaving children can be soothed over with some understanding and the willingness of ALL parties involved to say, "I'm sorry!"

Before retiring, Bob Walch taught English in Santa Barbara and Carmel for 39 years. His reviews of children's literature appear in Central Coast newspapers and on line at the Reading Tub, Roundtable Reviews, My Shelf and Parent Click.